MetaReward acquired by Experian Consumer Direct
MetaReward, an online marketing solutions provider, was acquired by Experian Consumer Direct on December 16, 2003 for an undisclosed amount. MetaReward operates through a network of high traffic websites and portals to provide lead generation, and in addition provides online reporting and optimization tools for publishers.
“Experian’s acquisition of MetaReward further validates our thesis that many online services companies are more valuable as part of larger platforms,” said Kevin Covert, the Managing Director leading the deal. “This transaction and the recent acquisition of Commission Junction by ValueClick are two recent examples of buyers realizing the value of integrated pay-for-performance marketing solutions. We expect consolidation to continue[.]”
“This transaction will allow MetaReward to leverage the Experian brand and platform to establish new relationships with direct marketers and web publishers, while Experian will gain a valuable marketing tool to offer its customers,” said Shawn Mendelovich, CEO of MetaReward.
Previous investors include Trinity Ventures, Woodside Fund, and Sandy Robertson.
About MetaReward
MetaReward is a leading developer of tools and technologies that direct marketers and web publishers use to generate revenue from online performance-based marketing. MetaReward operates a partner network for web publishers at www.metareward.com, as well as its own proprietary consumer sites NetFlip, FreeGiftCentral, MovieTicketSource, MisterPoints, and ExpertsOnCredit. Leading direct marketers including Chase, Columbia House, AOL Time Warner, American Express, BMG, Memberworks, Discover, Sprint and Bookspan rely on MetaReward for new customer acquisition, retention and analysis at a pre-determined, fixed cost per customer. MetaReward was founded in 1999, was privately held and is based in San Carlos, CA.
About Experian Consumer Direct
Experian Consumer Direct(SM) delivers the Internet’s premier credit products and services to help consumers better manage their financial lives. Its three-bureau report provides consumers instant access to their complete credit history from their Experian, Equifax and TransUnion files. Experian Consumer Direct’s Internet sites include FreeCreditReport.com, ConsumerInfo.com, CreditExpert.com and CreditMatters.com. The company delivered more than 1.5 million scores in 2002 and currently, more than 1.6 million members belong to its credit monitoring service. Experian Consumer Direct has established integrated co-branded partnerships with Yahoo!, Microsoft, EarthLink, LendingTree, Quicken, E-LOAN, and E*TRADE Group. The company is part of GUS plc (London Stock Exchange: GUS.L).
